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KI🚨NYC PARENT PSA: Times Square “character photos” can turn into a shake-down.
Here’s how the scam usually goes:
• Someone in a costume (Elmo/Spider-Man/etc.) pulls your kid in or steps into your photo.
• You take a quick pic thinking it’s a fun NYC moment.
• Then they block your way, demand cash, and pressure you hard (“tip now,” “how much you got?”).
• If you hesitate, it can get loud, intimidating, and messy fast—especially with kids.
How to avoid it (without drama):
✅ Don’t engage — keep walking, don’t make eye contact.
✅ If your kid wants a photo: say “No thank you” while moving.
✅ Never hand over your phone to them.
✅ If they step into your pic: put your phone down and walk away.
✅ If they follow you or won’t back off: head into a store / hotel lobby and call for help.
✅ Tell kids before you arrive: “We don’t take pictures with characters in Times Square.”
This isn’t “NYC being NYC.” It’s predatory—because they target families who don’t want a scene.
Save + share with a parent who’s heading to Midtown this weekend. 🗽🛑
#NYCParents #TimesSquare #NYCTips #FamilyTravelTips #kidsguidenyc
@kidsguidenyc
